In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Energies*, researchers have unveiled a scalable model for achieving carbon neutrality in urban environments, integrating cutting-edge nuclear technology with renewable energy sources. The study, led by Jungin Choi from the Department of Smart City & Energy at Gachon University in South Korea, introduces the SMR Smart Net-Zero City (SSNC) framework, which combines Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), renewable energy, and sector coupling within a microgrid architecture. This innovative approach addresses a critical challenge in the energy sector: the impracticality of relying solely on renewables due to the need for massive energy storage systems.
The SSNC framework leverages SMRs as a reliable baseload power source, complemented by renewable energy sources. Sector coupling systems, such as hydrogen production and heat generation, enhance grid stability by absorbing surplus energy and supporting the decarbonization of non-electric sectors. “The core contribution of this study lies in its real-time data emulation framework,” Choi explains. “We overcame the limitation of not having operational data for future technologies like SMRs and their coupled hydrogen production systems by using real-time data from an existing commercial microgrid.”
The researchers repurposed data from a commercial microgrid, focusing on electricity import during shortfalls and export during solar surpluses, to simulate the operational behavior of future SMRs and sector coupling loads. This physically grounded simulation approach enables high-fidelity approximation of technologies that are not yet commercially available. “This simulation-based framework offers a forward-looking, data-driven pathway to inform the development and control of next-generation carbon-neutral energy systems,” Choi adds.
A key element of the SSNC control logic is a day–night strategy: maximizing SMR output and minimizing hydrogen production at night, while minimizing SMR output and maximizing hydrogen production during the day. This strategy balances supply and demand while maintaining high SMR utilization for economic efficiency. The SSNC testbed was validated through a seven-day continuous operation in Busan, demonstrating stable performance and approximately 75% SMR utilization, supporting the feasibility of this proxy-based method.
This study represents the first publicly reported attempt to emulate the real-time dynamics of a net-zero city concept based on not-yet-commercial SMRs and sector coupling systems using live operational data. The implications for the energy sector are significant. As the world moves towards carbon neutrality, the SSNC framework provides a scalable model that can be adapted to various urban environments. The integration of SMRs with renewable energy sources and sector coupling systems offers a reliable and flexible solution for achieving net-zero emissions.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. Energy companies can leverage the SSNC framework to develop and deploy next-generation energy systems that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The use of real-time data emulation allows for the testing and optimization of these systems before they are commercially available, reducing the risks associated with new technology deployment.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the SSNC framework offers a promising pathway towards a carbon-neutral future. By integrating advanced nuclear technology with renewable energy sources and sector coupling systems, this innovative approach paves the way for sustainable urban development. The research published in *Energies* provides a valuable resource for energy professionals, policymakers, and researchers seeking to advance the development of next-generation energy systems.